Art and coffee

Home to New Zealand’s premiere street art festival, Graffiato, Taupo boasts a plethora of weird and wonderful, bright and bold murals dotted along its streets.

The Taupo Art Connection Art Trail showcases a vibrant collection of the region’s artists at their studio or gallery. Visits are by appointment only, so choose your artists ahead of time and book in to see these talented locals.

For coffee lovers, L’Arte and Lava Glass cafes both showcase a myriad of artistic endeavours including pottery and glass blowing, and serve magnificent coffee too.

History and Maori culture

Given Taupo's unique geology and Maori history, it’s not surprising to see the number of artistic works that reflect local landscapes and stories of cultural significance. For a closer look into Great Lake Taupo's past, take casual stroll through the Taupo Museum.

If a slice of culture is what you’re after, head north of Taupo to Wairakei Terraces and Thermal Health Spa. Here the ultimate cultural experience awaits. From traditional Maori ceremonies and cuisine to song, dance and the ferocious haka (war dance), you’ll get an insight into the awe-inspiring Maori culture of New Zealand.